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1896 Indian Head Cent

Strike Type
1896 (P) Cent coin

Coin Details

Year
1896
Denomination
Cent
Mint Mark
P
Strike Type
Regular Strike
Series
Indian Head Cents 1859-1909
Designer
James Barton Longacre
Mintage
39,055,431
Composition
95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
Weight
3.11g
Diameter
19mm
Edge
Plain

Value Estimates

$3.62 - $92

Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.

Auction Record

$709 MS66BN 05-30-2021 eBay

Description

The 1896 Indian Head Cent is a cent produced at the Philadelphia Mint as part of the Indian Head Cents 1859-1909 series. The U.S. Mint produced 39.1 million examples, making this the higher-mintage of the two mint variants, representing 100% of production. The obverse features Liberty wearing a feathered headdress, often misidentified as a Native American — actually represents Liberty adorned with a chief's war bonnet and the reverse displays an oak wreath with a shield at the top, enclosing ONE CENT. Struck during the Gilded Age of rapid industrialization and the great silver debates, when monetary policy shaped elections and economic destiny. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value ranges from $4 to $92 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2193.

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